Rare Earth Export Routes in Kachin State

Photo – AFP

ISP-M2025-112

Rare Earth Export Routes in Kachin State

Raw rare earth minerals from mines controlled by the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) are currently exported to China via one formal border trade station and three informal border gates. To export rare earths to India, the KIO could utilize potential routes through the renovated Ledo Road or towns in Sagaing Region and Chin State, many of which are fully or partially controlled by the KIO and its allied People’s Defense Forces (PDFs).